JPS Heating & Cooling

Category: HVAC

  • Winter-Ready in Nebraska: Furnace Tips to Stay Warm and Save Money!

    Winter-Ready in Nebraska: Furnace Tips to Stay Warm and Save Money!

    When Nebraska winter rolls in, it doesnt mess around. Between freezing temps, icy winds, and surprise snowstorms, your furnace becomes the most important appliance in your home. To keep it running efficiently (and avoid costly repairs), a few smart steps can make all the difference. Whether you’re in Omaha, Lincoln, or anywhere in between, here’s how to keep your furnace in top shape all season long.

    1. Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up Before the Freeze

    Your furnace has likely sat idle all summerdust builds up, parts wear down, and efficiency drops.
    Best Practice: Get a professional tune-up in early fall. We’ll clean the system, check for carbon monoxide leaks, inspect the heat exchanger, and ensure safe, efficient operation before the first real freeze hits.

    2. Change Your Furnace Filter Often

    A dirty air filter restricts airflow, makes your system work harder, and drives up energy bills.
    Best Practice: Check the filter monthly and replace it every 13 months. In Nebraska, with all the indoor heating and tightly closed homes, this simple task can extend your furnace’s life and improve air quality.

    3. Seal Drafts and Insulate

    Cold air sneaking in through doors, windows, and attics makes your furnace run overtime.
    Best Practice: Add weatherstripping, use door draft blockers, and make sure your attic and walls are well insulated. Proper sealing reduces energy waste and keeps your home consistently warm.

    4. Set Your Thermostat Wisely

    Its tempting to blast the heat when its 10F with a wind chillbut setting your thermostat too high increases wear on your furnace and spikes your energy bill.
    Best Practice: Keep your thermostat between 6870F when youre home and lower it 68 degrees at night or when youre away. A smart thermostat can automate this and save even more.

    5. Dont Block Vents or Returns

    Furniture, rugs, or curtains covering your vents can restrict airflow and throw off your systems balance.
    Best Practice: Walk through your home and make sure all vents and returns are open and unobstructed. Good airflow means better comfort and efficiency.

    6. Keep the Area Around Your Furnace Clear

    A cluttered furnace room is a fire hazard and can affect how your system breathes and performs.
    Best Practice: Leave at least 3 feet of clear space around the unit, and never store flammables nearby.

    7. Know the Warning Signs

    No heat, strange noises, burning smells, or increased energy bills are signs your furnace may need professional attention.
    Best Practice: Dont wait for a full breakdowncall us at the first sign of trouble. Catching small issues early prevents major repairs or replacements later.

    8. Consider Upgrading an Old Furnace

    If your furnace is over 15 years old, its likely costing you more than it should in energy and repairs.
    Best Practice: Ask us about high-efficiency models that are designed for Midwest winters. Newer systems can cut your heating bill by up to 30%.

    Final Thoughts:

    A reliable furnace is your best defense against Nebraskas bitter cold. By following these tips, youll stay warm, save money, and avoid emergency repairs. Need a tune-up, inspection, or replacement quote?

    Get your FREE Quote todaytrusted HVAC service for homes across Nebraska, all winter long.

  • Stay Cool, Nebraska! Summer AC Tips to Keep Your System Running Strong

    Stay Cool, Nebraska! Summer AC Tips to Keep Your System Running Strong

    Nebraska summers can be brutally hot and humid, and your air conditioner becomes your best friend during those long, sweaty days. But without proper care, even the best AC units can struggleleading to higher energy bills, discomfort, and expensive breakdowns. As your local HVAC experts, were here to help you make the most of your system. Follow these practical tips to keep your AC working better and longer all summer long.

    1. Change Your Air Filter Regularly

    Your AC’s air filter is the first line of defense against dust, pollen, and debris. In Nebraska, where agriculture and open fields stir up plenty of particles, a clogged filter can strain your system fast.
    Best Practice: Check your filter every 30 days and replace it every 13 months depending on use, pets, and indoor air quality.

    2. Keep the Outdoor Unit Clear

    Grass clippings, leaves, and debris can gather around your outside condenser unit, especially after mowing or during storms. A blocked condenser makes your system work harder to release heat.
    Best Practice: Keep at least 2 feet of clearance around your outdoor unit and gently rinse it off with a hose (power washers can damage the fins).

    3. Dont Crank the Thermostat

    We get itwhen its 95F and humid, you want instant relief. But drastically lowering your thermostat wont cool your home faster; it only puts unnecessary stress on your AC.
    Best Practice: Keep your thermostat set between 7478F for energy efficiency and comfort. Use ceiling fans to help circulate air and make the space feel cooler.

    4. Schedule Preventative Maintenance

    Most major AC issues we see in the Omaha and Lincoln areas couldve been prevented with a simple tune-up. Just like your car needs oil changes, your AC needs checkups.
    Best Practice: Schedule a professional inspection in late spring or early summer. Well clean the coils, check refrigerant levels, tighten connections, and make sure your system is ready to roll.

    5. Seal Up Air Leaks

    Nebraska homes, especially older ones, often suffer from drafty windows or poor insulation. Leaky ducts and gaps around doors let your precious cool air escape.
    Best Practice: Add weatherstripping, seal duct leaks, and consider attic insulation upgrades to keep the cool in and the heat out.

    6. Avoid Heat Build-Up Inside

    Appliances like ovens, dryers, and even certain lights give off heat that makes your AC work harder.
    Best Practice: Cook outside on the grill, use heat-generating appliances in the early morning or evening, and close blinds during peak sun hours.

    7. Install a Smart Thermostat

    A smart thermostat learns your habits and adjusts temperatures when youre away or asleepcutting energy use without sacrificing comfort.
    Best Practice: We can help you install and set up a smart thermostat that works with your system and lifestyle.

    Final Thoughts:

    Dont let a summer breakdown leave you sweating! With a few smart habits and regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your air conditioner and save money in the process. Need help getting your system summer-ready?

    Get your FREE Quote todaywere proud to serve the hardworking families of Nebraska with honest, reliable HVAC service.